Caroline: Thanks for sitting down with me, Janice. I’m really keen to hear more about Pregnancy Choice. To start us off, what drives your work?

Janice: Honestly, it all comes down to truth and love. We walk alongside people facing an unexpected pregnancy, making sure they have accurate information about their baby’s development and offering practical support — things like clothing or care packages for mum and baby. We don’t provide abortion referrals, but we do talk openly about the realities of abortion, including the physical and emotional risks that research has shown.

We’re available 24/7 — people can call, text, email, or chat through our website. If someone needs to talk face-to-face, we have premises in Tauranga and can connect them with other centres across New Zealand. In Tauranga, we run the Graced Opp Shop. Behind the shop is Koha, where women can pick up clothing for themselves or their children, free of charge. And just beyond that are our private offices — a safe space where women or couples can sit down, ask questions, and be heard.

Caroline: That’s wonderful. Do you have a sense of how many people you’re reaching? And maybe a story or two that stands out?

Janice: Between April 2024 and March 2025, we connected with more than 1,500 clients — in person, over the phone, or online. In that same period, we gave out over 4,000 bags of clothing and 70 baby care packages.

There are so many stories. One that really sticks with me is a couple from the UK who were holidaying in New Zealand. They found out they were pregnant and were considering abortion. The mum wanted to keep the baby, but the dad wanted to continue their OE and promised they’d have another child later. After lots of conversations and sharing information about baby development and the impact of abortion, they chose to return home and have their baby. Months later, they contacted us to say thank you — that our support had opened their eyes and helped them make the decision together.

We also see young women who’ve been kicked out of home because their parents don’t want them having a baby at a young age. Those situations are heartbreaking. Often, all they need is someone to reassure them that support is available, and that having a baby doesn’t mean their dreams are over. With the right help, many discover that their child brings joy and growth, even through the challenges.

Caroline: That’s powerful. Your work clearly makes a huge difference. Is there anything you’d like to say to our supporters?

Janice: Just a big thank you. We care deeply about women facing unplanned pregnancies, but we can’t do this alone. Knowing others are standing with us — financially and practically — keeps us going.

I often hear women say they wish our service had been around when they were pregnant, because they felt so alone. So often, people just need time to talk things through with someone who isn’t emotionally involved, and to get the full picture so they can make the best decision for themselves and their baby.

One young woman, just 16 yrs old, shared this comment with us:

“What I thought was the worst thing that could ever happen to me has now become the best thing that has ever happened. Thank you for being there for me during this hard time. I wouldn’t have my beautiful daughter in my life if it wasn’t for your help and support.”